Mr. DOYLEasked the Postmaster General whether he is aware that a telegram from Angers, France, notifying Messrs. Glendinning and Sons, Newcastle-on-Tyne, of the dispatch of a valuable consignment of goods, was sent on the forenoon of 21st June and was not delivered until 24th June, and that in consequence of such delay, as the boat arrived before the telegram, there was no opportunity for insurance; and whether any explanation can be given of such dilatory Post Office methods?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHThis telegram was not received in London until the evening of the 23rd June. Owing to interruptions on the French land lines and great pressure of traffic, Paris has had to send a considerable number of telegrams by train in order to obviate the greater delay which would arise if they had been retained for transmission by wire. I am having inquiry made as regards the treatment of the telegram after its receipt in London, and will communicate the result to the hon. Member.